What it is

The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (VAHCC) is a statewide chamber whose mission is to build economic bridges between Hispanic businesses and the community at large. The Chamber and its sister Virginia Hispanic Foundation were created in 2000 by Michel and Lisa Zajur, who closed their Richmond restaurant, La Siesta, to work full time on community needs such as language barriers, employment and education. Over the years the Chamber has supported business growth through training, job fairs and help with government bids and contracts. It has offices in Central Virginia (Richmond) and Northern Virginia (McLean) and also lists Hampton Roads as a service area.

What it offers founders

  • Impacto Business Program: a 6-week bilingual (English and Spanish) online curriculum with a weekly live speaker series covering strategic planning, financial management, marketing, sales and operations, with a completion certificate.
  • Small Business Loan Program: run with LISC Virginia, offering 0% interest, unsecured loans of $25,000 to $50,000 plus free coaching to eligible members.
  • Business consultations: members can request a one-on-one appointment with a specialist in English or Spanish.
  • Events and visibility: a chamber events calendar, the Virginia Hispanic Gala, Restaurante Week, the Annual Business Conference and Awards Luncheon, plus a member directory and job board.

Who it is for

VAHCC serves Hispanic-owned businesses and the companies, partners and professionals who want to work with them across Virginia. Some programs are geographically limited: the Impacto program is for businesses established in the Greater Richmond Area, and the loan program is limited to the City of Richmond, Henrico County and Chesterfield County. Northern Virginia founders can still use membership, consultations, the directory and statewide events.

Membership and pricing

Membership has three annual tiers. Grow ($495 per year) includes a directory listing, a member marketing page, the ability to promote offers, events and jobs, access to health, benefits and HR solutions, and a one-on-one virtual mentor meeting. Accelerate ($1,195 per year) adds visibility planning with the Chamber team and expanded promotion. Executive ($2,395 per year) adds Executive Circle recognition and leadership engagement opportunities. Businesses operating for less than two years may qualify for a reduced first-year Grow membership. See the membership page for current details.

How to engage

Start by reviewing the Impacto program and the loan program eligibility, then join as a member if you want consultations or loan access. The Northern Virginia office is at 8270 Greensboro Drive, Suite 850, McLean, VA 22102. You can reach the Chamber at 804-378-4099 or through its contact page.